HALF MOON BALANCE POSE
Ardha Chandrasana
(are-dah chan-DRAHS-anna)
Ardha = Half
Candra = Glittering, Shining, Having the brilliancy or hue of light (said of translated as “moon”)
Steps:
- Stand in Tadasana.
- Step your feet wide apart. Inhale and extend your arms out to the side.
- Turn your left foot in slightly; turn your right leg out directly to the side.
- Exhale and bend your right knee and place your right fingertips about 10 to 12 inches in front of your right foot.
- Inhale and lift so you are balancing on your right leg and hand. Extend your left arm fully above your left shoulder.
- Keeping your attention to your balance focused in your pelvis; turn your head to look up at your left hand.
- Hold for a few breaths, then bring your left hand to your hip and turn your gaze down to the floor. Exhale, bend your right knee and slowly bring your left leg down to the floor behind you.
- Bring your hands to your hips, keep your legs engaged, and slowly come back to Tadasana. Repeat on the other side.
Variations:
Place a block under your lower hand for support in step 4 and keep your top hand on your hip. You could also place your left hand on your sacrum instead of lifting it to the sky.
Benefits:
Improves circulation; Increases energy to the spine and low back; Strengthens the arches, ankles, knees and thighs, stretches the hamstrings, opens the chest and hips; Relieves menstrual discomfort and sciatica; Improves balance and coordination
Contraindications:
Knee injury; Neck injury; Low blood pressure; Vertigo